AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott today announced his intention to appoint Jimmy Blacklock to the Texas Supreme Court upon Justice Willett’s confirmation to the 5th Circuit. During a press conference today, the Governor also expressed his support for Blacklock’s upcoming election that will take place in 2018.

“The Texas Supreme Court plays a critical role in matters that will impact the lives of Texans for generations to come,” said Governor Abbott. “It is vital that we replace Justice Willett with someone who can provide the same conservative leadership and legal expertise, and I believe Jimmy is best qualified to fill that role. Jimmy’s extraordinary legal skills, respect for the Rule of Law, and commitment to the Constitution make him the ideal candidate to ensure the freedoms that we cherish as Texans and as Americans will be well protected.”

Jimmy Blacklock was born and raised in Texas, and received his undergraduate degree from the University of Texas. Upon graduation, Blacklock went on to attend Yale Law School. While at Yale, he was a member of the Federalist Society and was president of the Yale Law Republicans. Blacklock’s success at Yale Law earned him a clerkship with Judge Jerry Smith on the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals. This led to an appointment by President George W. Bush in the Civil Rights Division within the United States Department of Justice. Currently, Blacklock serves as Governor Abbott’s General Counsel after serving six years in the Texas Attorney General’s office, where he was instrumental in assisting in Obamacare litigation, religious liberty and right to life issues.

More Support Announced For Jimmy Blacklock To Texas Supreme Court

“Jimmy Blacklock is a serious lawyer whose background and skill will allow him to make an immediate and lasting impact on the Texas Supreme Court. Through his work at the highest levels of state and federal government, including serving President George W. Bush and in the Texas Attorney General and Governor’s offices, he has handled some of Texas’ most important and challenging legal issues. His career reflects his strong commitment to public service, the Constitution and the rule of law. He will make an excellent addition to Texas’ highest court.”

Lee Parsley, General Counsel of Texans for Lawsuit Reform

“Governor Abbott has made an excellent choice. Jimmy Blacklock’s experience and talent as a lawyer make him highly qualified to serve on the Texas Supreme Court. Jimmy’s work on important constitutional litigation at the Attorney General’s office and his exemplary service to the Governor demonstrate his commitment to public service. His strong work ethic, legal ability, and dedication to the rule of law will make Jimmy Blacklock a welcome addition to Texas’ highest civil court.”

Tom Phillips, Former Chief Justice of the Texas Supreme Court

“Texas Right to Life has worked with Jimmy Blacklock for a number of years on Pro-Life policies. We are very pleased that Governor Abbott will appoint Jimmy to the Supreme Court of Texas. Jimmy is dedicated to applying the letter of the law as a judge, and he has a clear understanding of the proper role of the judiciary in our government. We know Jimmy to be a talented, hard-working, and well-rounded attorney with a strict constructionist view of the Constitution. Jimmy will make Governor Greg Abbott, the Pro-Life community, and all Texans proud.”